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Location Plan vs Block Plan: what’s the difference?
They’re linked, but they do different jobs. Find out which one you need in our helpful explainer.
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What map do I need for Planning permission in the UK?
If you are applying for planning permission in the UK, then you’ll need a location plan - and you may also need a site plan, sometimes called a block plan.
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What is OS VectorMap and when should you use it?
OS VectorMap sits between highly detailed geographic data and straightforward map views - giving you mapping that’s easier to work with, but still offering useful structure and context.
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OS MasterMap vs OS Maps: what’s the difference?
OS MasterMap and OS Maps do different jobs. The difference matters because the right choice depends on what you’re trying to do.
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What is OS MasterMap® and how is it used?
OS MasterMap is one of Ordnance Survey’s most detailed digital datasets and offers the authoritative, highly accurate view of Great Britain with verified details of more than 500 million real-world features across the physical landscape.
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Promap Alternatives for OS MasterMap and mapping
A guide to UK mapping tools - what to consider, what alternatives are there, what do they offer, what to look for and so on.
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Step-by-step, how to get a Planning map for your property
Getting a planning map for your property is simple. In most cases, you’re looking for a location plan, a site/block plan, or both.
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What is a mapping licence?
A practical guide to UK mapping licences - when you need one, OS vs commercial providers, common licence types, pricing factors, and key risks.
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Google Maps vs Ordnance Survey - which is better?
Comparing Google Maps and Ordnance Survey for UK business use: exploring licensing complexity, data ownership, cost predictability, customisation options, and long-term risk.
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Do I need a licence to use Ordnance Survey maps?
Find out when a licence is needed, what OS OpenData covers, internal vs external use, and five common business mistakes.
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How much does UK mapping data cost?
A guide to UK mapping data costs: Ordnance Survey vs third-party suppliers, per-user vs enterprise pricing, web tiles vs raw GIS data, API models, and indicative budget ranges.
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OS OpenData vs OS Licensed Data - is there a difference?
A guide to OS OpenData vs OS licensed data: accuracy and detail, attribution, update frequency, commercial restrictions, and the most common use cases.
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Checklist for buying mapping data in the UK
Buying mapping data can be daunting. Here's a practical buying checklist that helps you keep costs, compliance, and delivery aligned from day one.
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What map scale is required for Planning Applications?
When you’re preparing a planning application, the right map scale matters. In most cases, you’ll need a location plan and, depending on the application, a site plan too - also known as a block plan.
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How to draw a site boundary for planning permission
One of the most important steps in preparing a planning application is drawing the site boundary correctly. In simple terms, you have to show the land your application actually relates to.
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Do I need an OS Map for Planning permission?
When you’re applying for planning permission, you’ll usually need an Ordnance Survey-based map because planning authorities need a clear, accurate way to identify the site your application relates to.
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What is a red line boundary in Planning?
A red line boundary is the line drawn on a planning location plan to show the main site covered by a planning application.
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How much does a Planning map cost in the UK?
A planning map doesn’t have one fixed national price. It depends on how you are getting it, what you need, and whether you are buying the map on its own or using a planning application service that bundles mapping into a wider charge.
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Buy a Planning map online: what you need to know
Buying a planning map online is usually straightforward - but it helps to know what you need before you start.













